Things to do in Málaga

Activities, attractions and tours

Málaga
Gibralfaro Castle which includes heritage architecture, a coastal town and a bay or harbour
Málaga
Malaga showing interior views, a house and heritage elements
Málaga
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Top places to visit

1. Port of Malaga

The Port of Málaga is one of the oldest seaports in Spain and the first stop for many visitors on a trip to the city. The port is both a transportation hub and a popular destination itself. Shop in chic malls, lounge on beaches and explore cutting-edge art galleries, all within the marina area.
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Port of Malaga which includes modern architecture, a marina and cycling

2. Malagueta Beach

Malagueta Beach is an ideal place to escape the city and unwind by the sea. During the high season, waterfront food vendors and busy restaurants line the shore, parents and children use the playground facilities and visitors enjoy beach activities. Stretch out on a sun lounger, walk barefoot on the sands and cool off in the calm waters.
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Malagueta Beach which includes tropical scenes and a beach

3. Picasso Museum Malaga

Located in the heart of the Old Town, Museo Picasso Malaga is a monumental tribute to an exceptional local talent: Pablo Picasso. Browse the nearly 300 works by the world-famous painter and sculptor. See early 19th-century sketches of landscapes, cubist impressions and modern 20th-century portraits. While here, also admire the grand setting for the museum, the elaborate 16th-century palace called Palacio de Buenavista.
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Picasso Museum Malaga which includes street scenes as well as an individual male

4. Alcazaba

Built between the eighth and 11th centuries this palatial fortress was named Alcazaba, the Arabic word for citadel. The military-style structure was fortified with double stone walls and tall towers, erected to see enemies approach. Take a historic journey by entering through the fortress’ magnificent gates and explore gardens, towers and patios. From the Maldonado Tower (Torre de Maldonado), you can see all the way to Africa on a clear day.
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Alcazaba showing chateau or palace and heritage architecture

5. Málaga Cathedral

This ornate and stately cathedral is known among locals as La Manquita, or “The One-Armed Lady,” because its tower was intended to be one of two. The first tower was erected to an imposing 276 feet (84 meters), but then construction ceased because the funds were sent to American troops in the War of Independence in 1780. Even without the second tower, the cathedral is grand.
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Malaga Cathedral featuring interior views, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

6. Gibralfaro Castle

Gibralfaro Castle is a Malaga icon and appears on the city and province’s flag and seal. The 10th-century monument with sturdy 14th-century fortifications is perched above the Moorish fortress Alcazaba in the Montes del Malaga mountain range. At the top, you can look out over the historic walls, Malaga’s port and the Mediterranean coastline.
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aerial view of malaga taken from gibralfaro castle including port of malaga, alcazaba castle and the cathedral of malaga during sunset, Shutterstock ID 444551362, purchase_order: SP-1269 HA 2018 Batch

7. Plaza de la Merced

The Plaza de la Merced is a spacious 19th-century square in Malaga’s historic center. Lined with cafés, bars and restaurants, Plaza de la Merced really begins to buzz in the late afternoon, when visitors join the gathering locals to soak up the last rays of the sun and exchange stories. Linger on a terrace on the northern side and order tapas or coffee. Find the bronze statue of Picasso sitting on a bench and visit Picasso’s Birthplace.
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Malaga showing cycling as well as a couple

8. Central Market of Atarazanas

The Mercado de Atarazanas is an impressive sight, a covered fresh produce market housed in an old Arabic building with a history that goes back to the 14th century. What was once a shipbuilding yard when the Moors ruled is now a market selling fresh and local products. Embark on a food shopping expedition and stay for tapas in one of the bars.
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Central Market of Atarazanas featuring a city

What to do in Málaga

Popular places to visit

Port of Malaga which includes a city and night scenes

Port of Malaga

4.5/5(635 reviews)

One of Spain’s most popular cruise ports is a great place to experience the atmosphere and history of lively, welcoming Málaga.

Port of Malaga
Malagueta Beach featuring a beach, swimming and a coastal town

Malagueta Beach

4/5(584 reviews)

Laze under the Andalucían sun on this popular beach, which is just a short stroll from Malaga's historic city center.

Malagueta Beach
Picasso Museum Malaga which includes interior views and art as well as an individual female

Picasso Museum Malaga

4/5(289 reviews)

Within the Palacio de Buenavista, a 16th-century palace, is this museum showcasing the life and works of Malaga’s most celebrated artist.

Picasso Museum Malaga
Calle Larios

Calle Larios

4.5/5(85 reviews)

During your visit to Malaga Historic Centre, you can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Calle Larios. While in this walkable area, you can savour the top-notch restaurants.

Calle Larios
Alcazaba showing heritage architecture and a statue or sculpture

Alcazaba

4.5/5(315 reviews)

Explore the lavishly decorated residence of Moorish sultans and other rulers in this thousand-year-old fortress built on the remains of a Roman settlement.

Alcazaba
Malaga Cathedral featuring interior views, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Málaga Cathedral

4.5/5(477 reviews)

The “One Armed Lady” and her ornate Baroque and Renaissance features has charmed locals for over 200 years.

Málaga Cathedral
Gibralfaro Castle which includes heritage architecture, a coastal town and a bay or harbour

Gibralfaro Castle

4.5/5(300 reviews)

Malaga’s most famous landmark sits on top of a mountain and offers panoramic views of the city and the Alboran Sea, stretching all the way to Africa.

Gibralfaro Castle
Plaza de la Merced

Plaza de la Merced

4.5/5(10 reviews)

Enjoy the sunshine with the locals in this historic Old Town plaza filled with majestic monuments, Picasso tributes, lanterns, trees and restaurant terraces.

Plaza de la Merced
Central Market of Atarazanas

Central Market of Atarazanas

4.5/5(11 reviews)

Browse stalls for fresh local produce and experience the sights, sounds and smells of this longstanding market set in a historical building.

Central Market of Atarazanas

Areas of Málaga

Port of Malaga featuring general coastal views, a marina and boating

Málaga Centro

4.5/5(807 area reviews)

Port of Malaga and Malagueta Beach are a few top attractions in Málaga Centro. Hop around the city on the metro at La Marina Station or La Malagueta Station and check out the area's fantastic nightlife, stunning cathedral and captivating waterfront views.

Málaga Centro
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Malaga-Este

4.5/5(19 area reviews)

You'll enjoy the cafes and spas in Malaga-Este. You might want to make time for a stop at Malagueta Beach or Playa de Pedregalejo.

Malaga-Este
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Ciudad Jardin

4/5(2 area reviews)

Ciudad Jardin is noteworthy for its restaurants, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Malaga Botanical Garden and Mirador Del Cochino.

Ciudad Jardin
Malagueta Beach which includes a beach and signage

La Malagueta

Pristine beaches, ample dining options and captivating waterfront views are just a few things travellers love about La Malagueta. Sights like Malagueta Beach and Muelle Uno are top spots to explore, and you can get around the greater Málaga area at La Malagueta Station.

La Malagueta
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Churriana

3.5/5(59 area reviews)

The pristine beaches and ample dining options are top of the list for many visitors to Churriana. A stop by Malaga Airport Museum or Parador Malaga Golf Club might round out your trip.

Churriana
Malaga which includes outdoor art

Carretera de Cadiz

4/5(40 area reviews)

Consider a visit to Jose Maria Martin Carpena Arena and take some time to enjoy the beaches during your time in Carretera de Cadiz. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at El Torcal Station or La Luz - La Paz Station.

Carretera de Cadiz
La Carihuela showing street scenes

Torremolinos

Photo by Louis Pagé

Rincon de la Victoria

Malaga Historic Centre featuring heritage architecture, street scenes and shopping

Malaga Historic Centre

Frequently asked questions

Is Málaga worth visiting?
Whether you're here to experience the cultural hotspots and local charm or sample unique foods and explore in nature, there are many things to do in Málaga.
How do I spend a day in Málaga?
Malagueta Beach and Bajondillo Beach are two awesome places to kick-start your sightseeing adventures. Be sure to check out the retail and dining options in Málaga while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Málaga?
Don't go home without checking out Malagueta Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Málaga.
Is three days enough to stay in Málaga?
You can easily enjoy popular sights like Malagueta Beach, Málaga Cathedral and Picasso Museum Malaga with a three-day break in Málaga. On average, most travellers book three days here. There's plenty to do and see nearby too, so stay a while longer and check out Marbella.
Is Málaga a walkable city?
It depends on what you'd like to do and see in Málaga. Several top sights, like Malagueta Beach and Málaga Cathedral, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Málaga's neighbourhoods, Málaga Centro is 0.64 kilometres away from downtown, while Malaga Historic Centre is 0.16 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Málaga with kids?
If you're looking for sights and tours for all the family, check out these great ideas for what to do in Málaga with kids.

What to do in Málaga for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there are loads of things to do in Málaga for adults including Jose Maria Martin Carpena Arena and Cortijo de Torres Municipal Auditorium.
Are there free things to do in Málaga?
In Málaga, Malagueta Beach is a top spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a great way to explore the best free things to do in Málaga.